Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

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If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, savory, and packed with rich, comforting flavor, this Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni is the dish you’ve been waiting for. Imagine tender, juicy steak bites seared to perfection in a garlicky butter sauce, paired with creamy, cheesy rigatoni that hugs every bite with decadent flavor. It’s the kind of meal that turns any dinner into something worth celebrating.

This dish brings together the best of both worlds: hearty, flavorful meat and comforting pasta. It’s ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner, an impressive date-night plate, or even a weekend treat when you’re craving something special. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, yet it tastes like a high-end steakhouse creation.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

This recipe delivers on every level—flavor, texture, and satisfaction. The steak is juicy and well-seasoned with a crust that forms from a hot sear in garlic butter. The rigatoni, meanwhile, is bathed in a silky, cheesy sauce that’s bursting with savory Parmesan and accented with herbs and cream.

You’ll love this recipe because it’s quick to make, looks gourmet, and is loaded with protein and comforting carbs. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving guests, it’s bound to impress.

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What Kind of Steak Should I Use?

The best choice for this recipe is sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes. Sirloin is lean but tender, while ribeye has more marbling, giving it a richer taste. If you’re looking for maximum tenderness, filet mignon tips are another excellent option. Just be sure to choose a cut that holds up well to high heat searing, so you get that beautiful caramelized exterior.

As for the pasta, rigatoni is ideal because its ridges catch all that creamy Parmesan sauce. But penne or ziti will also work if that’s what you have on hand.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

Each component in this dish plays a flavorful role. From the robust steak to the rich, cheesy pasta, here’s what you’ll need to bring it all together.

• Sirloin steak – Juicy and flavorful, it’s perfect for searing into tender bites.
• Unsalted butter – Provides the base for the garlic butter that enhances the steak.
• Garlic cloves – Minced and sautéed, garlic adds bold, savory flavor to both the steak and the sauce.
• Rigatoni pasta – This sturdy pasta holds creamy sauces beautifully.
• Heavy cream – Creates a rich, velvety sauce for the rigatoni.
• Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for a nutty, salty, cheesy flavor that melts right in.
• Olive oil – Helps sear the steak and adds depth of flavor.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning both the steak and the pasta.
• Fresh parsley – Adds freshness and a burst of color to finish the dish.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

Step 1: Prep the Steak

Cut your sirloin steak into bite-sized cubes. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure a perfect sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a hot skillet. Once shimmering, add the steak cubes. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Add a few tablespoons of butter and minced garlic, then baste the steak with the garlicky butter. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak (wipe excess oil if needed), pour in the heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan and reserved pasta water. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked rigatoni into the creamy sauce. Stir until fully coated. Plate with the garlic butter steak bites on the side or mixed in. Garnish with chopped parsley and a bit more Parmesan.

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Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni

This recipe serves about 4 hungry people, or 6 smaller portions, making it a great family-style dinner. It’s best enjoyed hot off the stove, but you can easily prepare components ahead of time for quicker weeknight assembly.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. The steak may lose some crispness, but the flavors stay rich and comforting.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni?

This dish is indulgent and hearty, so lighter sides and crisp textures make the perfect pairing. Here are some tasty ideas:

Garlic Bread

A classic side that complements the creamy pasta sauce and helps soak up every last drop.

Caesar Salad

Crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and Parmesan bring a cool contrast to the warm steak and pasta.

Roasted Asparagus

Simple roasted asparagus with a drizzle of lemon balances the richness of the main dish.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms cooked in garlic butter tie in beautifully with the steak.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Fresh, acidic, and crunchy—a great way to refresh your palate between bites.

Steamed Broccoli

Add some green goodness with steamed or roasted broccoli, lightly seasoned with sea salt.

Red Wine

A bold red, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, elevates the meal and enhances the steak’s flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! While sirloin is a great balance of tenderness and price, you can also use ribeye for richer flavor or filet mignon for extra tenderness. Just make sure it’s a cut that can be seared quickly without drying out.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of flour or cream cheese to help thicken the sauce, though it won’t be quite as rich.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the steak and sauce ahead. Cook the steak and refrigerate, then reheat briefly when ready to serve. Store the sauce separately and combine with fresh pasta for best texture.

Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s not ideal, as creamy sauces can separate when frozen and reheated. However, if needed, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat with added cream on the stovetop.

What herbs can I use besides parsley?
Chopped basil, thyme, or chives would also pair well with the steak and creamy pasta.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use sirloin or go for something fancier? Did you spice up the sauce?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Parmesan Rigatoni is the kind of recipe that hits every comfort-food craving. With juicy steak bites, buttery garlic flavor, and luscious cheesy pasta, it’s a dream dinner that’s both fancy and fuss-free. Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you try it, it might just become your favorite go-to meal!

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